ANAEMIA
Anaemia may be defined as a condition in which there is a decrease in the quantity of haemoglobin or in the number of red cells. Anaemia is among the most common ailments affecting human beings. Complains of weakness, fatigue, lack of energy, and dizziness. Other symptoms include a haggard look, premature wrinkles, dull and tired looking eyes, poor memory, shortness of breath on exertion, headache, slow healing of wounds, and palpitations. The skin and mucous membranes look pale.
SOME HOME REMEDIES
Beets: Beets are very helpful in curing anemia. The juice of red beet strengthens the body's powers of resistance and has proved to be an excellent remedy for anaemia, especially for children and teenagers, where other blood-forming remedies have failed.
Fenugreek: The leaves
of fenugreek help in blood formation. The cooked leaves should be taken by
adolescent girls to prevent anaemia, which may occur due to the onset of puberty
and menstruation. The seeds of fenugreek are also a valuable cure for anaemia,
being rich in iron.
Lettuce: Lettuce is
another effective remedy for this ailment as it contains a considerable amount
of iron. It can, therefore, be used as a good tonic food for anaemia. The iron
in it is easily absorbed by the body.
Spinach: This leafy
vegetable is a valuable source of high grade iron. After its absorption, it
helps in the formation of haemoglobin and red blood cells. It is thus beneficial
in building up the blood, and in the prevention and treatment of anaemia.
Soyabean: Soya bean
is rich in iron and also has a high protein value. As most anaemic patients
usually also suffer from a weak digestion, it should be given to them in a very
light form, preferably in the form of milk, which can be easily digested.
Almonds: Almonds
contain copper to the extent of 1.15 mg per 100 gm. The copper along with iron
and vitamins, acts as a catalyst, in the synthesis of haemoglobin. Almonds are,
therefore, a useful remedy for anaemia. Seven almonds should be soaked in water
for about two hours and ground into a paste after removing the thin red skin.
This paste may be eaten once daily in the morning for three months.
Sesame Seeds: Black
sesame seeds, as a rich source of iron, are valuable in anaemia. After soaking
one teaspoon of the seeds in warm water for a couple of hours, they should be
ground and strained, and ' then mixed with a cup of milk and sweetened with
jaggery or sugar. This emulsion should be given to patients suffering from
anaemia.
Honey: Honey is
remarkable for building haemoglobin in the body. This is largely due to the
iron, copper, and manganese contained in it.
Other Foods: There
are several other foods which are rich sources of iron and can be used
beneficially in the treatment of anaemia. The more important of these are
bananas, black grapes, plums, strawberries, raisins, onions, squash, carrots,
radish, celery, and tomatoes.